Rainbow Labs, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Queer and Gender Nonconforming Youth (QGNC) through community engagement and mentorship, honored multi-talented artist VINCINT and activist journalist Ashlee Marie Preston at their inaugural Violet Visionary Awards on October 17, 2024.
Held at Serra on Vine, the ceremony guests were asked to wear violet attire, symbolizing the spirit of the LGBTQ+ community as represented in the Rainbow Flag. The event coincided with Spirit Day, a day dedicated to uplifting LGBTQ+ youth.
VINCINT received The Voice of Inspiration Award for their impactful artistry and dedication to representation within the LGBTQ+ community.
Ashlee Marie Preston was honored with The Heart of the Community Award, recognizing their unwavering commitment to activism and inspiring change for LGBTQ+ youth.
"This is a full circle moment because I literally used to sleep outside a few feet away from here when I was a young homeless youth. And it was programs and services such as the ones that Rainbow Labs offer that gave me tools to help me transmute that pain into power," said Preston. "At a time where there are so many young people who don't know who is in their corner, it's important for us to be able to remind them that we are going to continue to not only show up for their safety and survival but to actually invest in their ambitions, passions and the things that really makes them feel alive."
The Light of the Future Award celebrated the transformative power of mentorship. This year, it was awarded to mentee Allix Grace and mentor Gael Alegria.
The evening, hosted by the legendary Nina West, featured captivating performances from renowned house ballroom groups: House of Comme de Garçons, House of Xclusive Lanvin, and House of Balmain. DJ GoodBoy provided music.
At the event, Rainbow Labs announced the launch of The Dream Builder Lab, a monthly giving program that supports LGBTQ+ youth through mentorship and youth development programs throughout Los Angeles County. Members help fund safe, inclusive spaces for youth to explore their identities and gain leadership skills. Contributions provide resources for activities like LGBTQ+ sports, entrepreneurship, leadership development, and creative storytelling, ensuring access to life-changing opportunities. Donors receive insider updates, early access to programs, and recognition for their support. The program aims to foster a future where LGBTQ+ youth can thrive.
Rainbow Labs extends its thanks to generous sponsorships from Diageo, Alaska Airlines, The Godfrey Hotel, Kaiser Permanente, Cedars, Los Angeles Football Club, and Aesop. Pepsi, and Haus Labs by Lady Gaga and individual contributions. The Violet Visionary Awards will return on October 16, 2025, celebrating even more leaders in the LGBTQIA+ community.
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Photo credit: Mo Satarzadeh (event), Brennan Wright (red carpet)
About Rainbow Labs
Rainbow Labs is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit organization that uplifts and empowers LGBTQ+ youth through mentorship and transformative programming. Our mission is to embolden Queer and Gender Nonconforming Youth to discover, curate, and experiment with the elements of a fulfilled life through community building and the lived experiences of mentors. Through innovative initiatives like our Leadership Lab, Sports Lab, Storytelling Lab, and Accelerator Lab, Rainbow Labs inspires youth to dream big, celebrate their authentic selves, and become the leaders of tomorrow. Learn more at www.rainbowlabs.org.
